How Sir Alex Ferguson Pursued Wayne Rooney Twice Before His Manchester United Move
Sir Alex Ferguson's determination to sign Wayne Rooney for Manchester United became evident when he approached Everton manager David Moyes not once, but twice. In the latest episode of The Wayne Rooney Show, Moyes shared insights into Ferguson's early interest in the young striker, who, at just 18, had already made a name for himself in the Premier League. Rooney's transfer to the Red Devils in August 2004 was finalized for a hefty £27 million, following a promising stint with Everton where he netted 15 goals in 67 appearances. Moyes recounted the first encounter: Ferguson requested a meeting at the Haydock Thistle Hotel. He expressed his desire for Rooney, to which Moyes firmly replied, "No, he is not for sale. No chance." Ferguson respected Moyes' stance but insisted that Rooney should not be sold to Chelsea or any other team. Despite the initial rejection, Ferguson returned a few weeks later, indicating that circumstances had changed and he still wanted to acquire Rooney. This persistence came after Rooney's standout performance at Euro 2004, where he scored four goals before injury sidelined him in the quarter-finals against Portugal. Rooney reflected on Ferguson's strategy, noting that after his Euro success, the urgency for a transfer increased, making it inevitable that he would join Manchester United that summer.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-29